1 Corinthians 10: 12 “Therefore, let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.”
It was pep-rally day and my fifth graders were excited beyond learning. In middle school, this day (along with new seating-chart day) ranked as the best! This was their first pep-rally, so I cut math class short to discuss pep-rally etiquette. (hence one reason it was a favorite!) I explained there would be no game and no concession stand, but they should cheer loudly anyway. However, they must never laugh at the cheerleaders should they mess up.
As we made our way toward the crowded bleachers in the gym, my mind was focused upon locating our assigned section. Giving no thought to my steps, at mid-court my toe caught the cheerleader mat. There for the viewing pleasure of the masses, I performed the most undignified, head-over-heels crash-landing ever witnessed, far surpassing any cheerleader-stunt they were about to behold! As I lay face-down on the mat wishing the gym floor would swallow me up, I became aware of the roars and cheers coming from the audience, all chanting my name. (Rule of thumb: Middle-schoolers always laugh at mess ups!)
My nose-dive that day was totally unanticipated, catching me off-guard while my attention was focused elsewhere. It was devastating and cost me every ounce of dignity I possessed. However, it turned out to be the highlight of my students’ year and lives on in infamy to this very day!
Scripture uses a similar scenario to impress upon us the ease of falling into pride. Wise King Solomon must have been familiar with pride for in Proverbs 16:18 he wrote, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
Unfortunately, powerful King Uzziah in II Chronicles 26, disregarded Solomon’s wise words and allowed his arrogance to overtake his righteousness. Pride convinced the king to trump God’s decrees with his own desires. When King Uzziah entered the sacred temple and approached the altar, he was fully aware his actions were an abomination before the Lord. Uzziah’s reign was cut short due to his haughty spirit, for God struck him with leprosy, condemning him to a life of isolation.
Pride is a compelling vice. It convinces us our personal desires surpass God’s will. As Solomon predicted long ago, pride’s path is a roadmap to destruction.
Today, on the rare occasion I find myself walking across a basketball court, I recall my epic fall and proceed with caution. I stand as a witness that falls come quickly and without warning. But so does our pride, dear Sisters. Be on guard!
Father God, open our eyes to the destructive path of pride.
Rita Cochrane